The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #157756   Message #3725404
Posted By: GUEST,Frank Hamilton
22-Jul-15 - 08:44 AM
Thread Name: Obit: Theodore Bikel (1924-2015)
Subject: RE: Obit: Theodore Bikel (1924-2015)
I knew Theo personally and was impressed by his generous spirit and massive
talent. I borrowed his 12 string guitar upon occasion and he always had a gentle and good word to say about everyone. His first role was in "Tonight in Samarkand". He spoke numerous languages and could sing in all of them. He was particularly adept in Russian. He shared the birth nationality with Martha Schlamme. Theo was the organizer for the early parties at the Washington Square Apartments which included guests such as Dylan, Baez, Glen Yarborough and all the New York folkies. With the late Herb Cohen, he opened the Unicorn Coffee House in Los Angeles. I used to jam with him there along with Billy Faier, the great five-string banjo player who is still alive and kicking. Theo's Hannukah program was great and I remember him singing on it. I think it was for PBS.
He will be missed.